Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

The Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Lovers

Creamy cheesecake meets classic cinnamon roll in a dessert that promises pure indulgence.

Sweet aromas will drift through your kitchen, beckoning everyone closer.

Soft cream cheese blends seamlessly with warm spices, creating a luxurious texture.

Swirls of cinnamon sugar dance between smooth layers, promising decadent bites.

Baking this treat feels like crafting a delicious love letter to comfort food.

Each slice delivers a perfect balance of tangy and sweet notes.

Roll up your sleeves and get ready to wow your taste buds with this irresistible mashup.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe Benefits

  • Swirl with Decadence: Experience the perfect blend of classic cinnamon roll flavors and creamy cheesecake in one delightful dessert.
  • Impress Without Stress: This recipe looks complicated but actually comes together easily, making you seem like a pro baker with minimal effort.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Magic: Guaranteed to wow family and friends at gatherings, potlucks, or special celebrations with its stunning marbled appearance and irresistible taste.
  • Mix-and-Chill Convenience: Minimal active cooking time means you can prepare this dessert ahead and let it set in the refrigerator, perfect for busy home bakers who want a show-stopping treat.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Base Ingredients:
  • Graham Crackers: Classic cookie base that provides a crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crust and adds richness.
Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary component that creates the smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the tanginess of cream cheese.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Cinnamon Swirl:
  • Brown Sugar, Cinnamon: Create a sweet and spicy swirl that gives the cheesecake its signature cinnamon roll flavor.
  • Butter: Helps blend the cinnamon and brown sugar into a smooth mixture.
Frosting:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides the base for a tangy and rich topping.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, spreadable frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.

How to Prepare Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Canvas

Wrap the exterior of a springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage.

Create a luscious graham cracker crust by crushing graham crackers and mixing with melted butter.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend cream cheese until smooth and velvety.

Gradually add sugar, mixing until completely incorporated.

Gently fold in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

Ensure the mixture is completely smooth with no lumps, creating a silky-soft cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Craft the Cinnamon Swirl Magic

In a separate bowl, combine:
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Melted butter

Whisk these ingredients until they form a rich, aromatic mixture that will create beautiful swirls throughout the cheesecake.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl with Precision

Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust.

Dollop half of the cinnamon mixture across the surface.

Use a knife to create elegant swirling patterns.

Repeat with the remaining cheesecake batter and cinnamon mixture, creating a mesmerizing marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan.

Fill the roasting pan with hot water, creating a water bath that ensures even baking.

Bake in a preheated oven until the cheesecake is almost set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool slowly for one hour.

Step 6: Chill and Frost

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare a luscious cream cheese frosting by beating cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, spread the frosting evenly across the top, creating beautiful swirls with a spatula.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.

Slice with a warm knife for clean, perfect pieces.

Garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon if desired.

Serve chilled and watch as everyone falls in love with this decadent dessert.

Pro Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

  • Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan's bottom to create a solid, stable base that won't crumble when serving.
  • Bake cheesecake in a water bath to ensure even heating and reduce chances of surface cracks, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Allow cream cheese, eggs, and other dairy ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing to guarantee a silky, lump-free filling.
  • Use a butter knife or toothpick to create elegant cinnamon swirls without overmixing, maintaining beautiful marbled patterns throughout the cheesecake.

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

  • Gluten-Free Comfort: Replace graham cracker crust with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Indulgence: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream, and replace eggs with flax eggs for a plant-based alternative.
  • Low-Carb Bliss: Swap graham crackers for crushed pecans, use sugar substitute like erythritol, and reduce overall carbohydrate content for keto dieters.
  • Seasonal Spice Swap: Replace traditional cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice or cardamom for a unique seasonal flavor profile that transforms the classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

  • Brunch Bliss: Slice this decadent cheesecake as a stunning centerpiece for weekend morning gatherings with friends and family.
  • Sweet Finale: Serve chilled after a cozy dinner, pairing perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent dessert experience.
  • Party Showstopper: Present at potlucks or holiday celebrations, cutting into elegant wedges that will impress every guest with its swirled cinnamon beauty and creamy texture.
  • Afternoon Treat: Enjoy a slice with afternoon coffee, creating a delightful mid-day pick-me-up that feels luxurious and comforting.

Storage Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

  • Store covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Keep the cheesecake flat to preserve the swirl pattern and prevent cracking.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months without frosting. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Wrap individual slices separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Frozen slices keep well for 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before enjoying.

FAQs

  • What makes the cinnamon swirl special in this cheesecake?

The cinnamon swirl is created by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter, which adds a rich, warm flavor and beautiful marbled effect throughout the cheesecake.

  • Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake actually tastes better when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make this recipe?

You’ll need a springform pan and an electric mixer to create the smooth cheesecake batter and ensure proper mixing of ingredients.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet magic happens when Classic Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake blends creamy richness with swirled cinnamon magic. Layers of indulgent flavor combine seamlessly, promising delightful moments of pure comfort for dessert enthusiasts.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients:

  • 3 (8 ounces/226 grams) packages cream cheese
  • 1 cup (200 grams) sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Crust Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup (56 grams) melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

Cinnamon Swirl and Topping Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (56 grams) melted butter
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese
  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly grease a 9-inch springform pan and press graham cracker crust evenly across the bottom, creating a compact foundation for the cheesecake.
  2. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese until smooth and creamy, gradually incorporating sugar, then blend in eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky and well-integrated.
  3. In a separate small bowl, craft the signature cinnamon swirl by whisking together melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until the mixture reaches a rich, consistent texture.
  4. Pour approximately half of the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust, creating an even layer, then delicately drizzle and swirl one-third of the cinnamon mixture across the surface using a knife.
  5. Gently add remaining cheesecake batter, then decoratively marble the remaining cinnamon swirl throughout the top layer, ensuring an aesthetic and flavorful distribution.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for 45-50 minutes, watching for slight wobbling in the center while ensuring the edges are set and lightly golden.
  7. Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour, then refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to achieve optimal texture.
  8. Prepare the cream cheese frosting by blending softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and spreadable.
  9. Once thoroughly chilled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting across the top of the cheesecake, creating elegant swirls and peaks for a decadent finishing touch.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and create a smooth, creamy filling.
  • Use parchment paper on the springform pan bottom for easy removal and clean slicing of the cheesecake.
  • Gently swirl the cinnamon mixture to create beautiful marbled patterns without overmixing the batter.
  • Cool the cheesecake completely in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set properly and enhance flavor development.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star